Arrests Confirmed in PAGCOR's Gambling Enforcement Action
PAGCOR Leads Crackdown on Illegal Online Gambling in the Philippines
The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has taken a significant step in its ongoing campaign against illegal online gambling, with a recent raid in the affluent BF Northwest Subdivision of Parañaque City.
The operation, which was carried out in partnership with the National Capital Region Police Office and the Anti-Cybercrime Group, targeted Tbb888.com, a website identified by PAGCOR as a platform for illegal online gambling.
Raul Villanueva, PAGCOR's SVP for Security, was involved in the operation. During the raid, evidence of illegal activities was found, and authorities seized computers, phones, tablets, laptops, and drives. Twelve individuals were arrested, and the raid resulted in the shutdown of Tbb888.com.
Tbb888.com offered slots, casino, and esports betting, making it a popular choice for many Filipino bettors. However, the public is advised to avoid patronizing such illegal online gaming sites and instead play on legal platforms to protect themselves.
PAGCOR's dedication to combating all types of illegal online gambling was reiterated by Villanueva. He emphasized the importance of consistently monitoring and reporting illegal online gaming sites to authorities.
It is worth noting that PAGCOR's initiatives have resulted in the blocking of 80% of the nearly 5,000 illegal websites operating in the Philippines. The corporation's efforts are aimed at ensuring that only authorized entities operate legally within the country, thus safeguarding the revenues that are channelled back to the government for its nation-building programs.
PAGCOR's work in this area extends beyond direct enforcement. The corporation is also collaborating closely with the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center under the Department of Information and Communications Technology to identify and crack down on unlicensed online betting and illegal gambling operators.
The corporation's efforts are part of a broader campaign against illegal gambling, which poses a significant threat to the public and the nation. By working together with other government bodies and law enforcement agencies, PAGCOR is making strides in ensuring a safer and more secure online gaming environment for all Filipinos.
In the face of new legislative proposals aimed at enhancing consumer protection and tightening oversight, stakeholders urge balanced rules to avoid driving players to unregulated "grey market" platforms. PAGCOR's continued commitment to responsible gaming, compliance enforcement, and legislative collaboration will be crucial in maintaining a safe and regulated online gaming industry in the Philippines.
- Despite the ongoing crackdown on illegal online gambling led by PAGCOR, some Filipinos still engage in unregulated sports betting on gray market platforms.
- Apart from casino-games and esports betting, illegal online gambling activities in the Philippines include casino-and-gambling, lotteries, and other forms of betting that are not authorized by PAGCOR.
- General news outlets have reported an increase in crime-and-justice incidents related to illegal online gambling operations in the Philippines, emphasizing the need for stricter regulations and enforcement by authorities like PAGCOR.
